1863 Abraham Lincoln Signed Military Commission

United States military commission, dated April 9, 1863, signed by Abraham Lincoln (1809-1865), sixteenth President of the United States. This is an extraordinary Abraham Lincoln signed commission, an ideal example, outstanding in all respects. The fully executed commission, which is partially handwritten and printed on vellum, appoints John A. Bolles as "Additional Aide de Camp with the Rank of Major." The commission has been boldly signed in black ink by "Abraham Lincoln" ("9/10") and also by Secretary of War "Edwin M. Stanton" ("8"). One of the many distinguishing characteristics of military commissions is the fact that Lincoln always penned his full-name signature, rather than "A. Lincoln," the form commonly found on other documents and letters. John A. Bolles served as both an Aide de Camp and Judge Advocate with the Seventh Army Corps during the Civil War. He also enjoyed a brief political career, having earlier served as 8th Massachusetts Secretary of the Commonwealth between the years 1843 and 1844. The document features an elaborately engraved vignette containing all the elements of the Great Seal of the United States, with the words "The President of the United States of America" as its banner, making it particularly ideal for display. The original green paper seal remains firmly attached at the top. The document (15 x 19 inches), which has one vertical and four horizontal folds, displays a small area of light discoloration in the lower left corner and is otherwise in Excellent to Mint condition. This is an exceptional Lincoln signed commission, dating from the height of the Civil War, and one that would be a highlight addition to any advanced Lincoln, presidential, or Civil War collection. Handsomely matted and framed to total dimensions of 26 x 29.5 inches. Full LOA from James Spence/JSA. SOLD FOR $10,200

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